Citrusdal: Operational Accountant

Position: Operational Accountant Location: Citrusdal, Western Cape, South Africa Commencement date: ASAP Salary: Market related and depending on experience Our client is a rooibos export and marketing company, known for a wide and innovative range of value-added rooibos products, directly linked to our farms and the people working the fields and managing the quality of product we are producing. We are currently seeking a proficient and driven Operational Accountant to join our team and play a pivotal role in our ongoing success. Job Description: The Operational Accountant ensures the effective output of financial operations by accurately recording transactions, monitoring budgets, and analysing cost efficiencies within the operations of the company. This role supports decision-making with detailed financial reports and insights, implements internal controls to prevent errors and fraud, and identify areas for operational improvement. This role bridges daily financial management with operations to assist in strategic planning, helping to align the company’s financial practices with long-term goals and enhance overall financial health. Key Responsibilities: Work with the operational teams to capture and allocate operational costs accurately. Provide insights into cost performance, identifying areas of improvement or opportunities for cost saving, particularly in inventory management, distribution and production. Ensure that operational data is effectively captured and reported. Collaborate with departments such as sales, supply chain, marketing, and production to streamline processes and ensure financial controls are effectively integrated into daily operations. Provide financial support for key operational decisions, such as pricing, promotional spend, and product launches, ensuring financial feasibility and profitability. Regularly communicate financial insights and recommendations to non-financial managers to help them understand the financial impact of operational decisions. Work closely with the supply chain and inventory teams to ensure accurate financial reporting of inventory levels, stock turnover and product costings. Monitor and report on inventory-related financial performance, including obsolete stock, stock write-offs, and order variances. Assist in inventory audits and reconciliations, ensuring that financial records align with physical inventory levels. Allocate and track operational expenses in accordance with the company’s accounting policies and financial reporting standards. Support the month-end closing processes by providing accurate information related to operational costs. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field as minimum. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accounting software (Business Central advantageous). Experience: 2 years of experience in a financial or operational accounting role, preferably in an FMCG, retail, or sales-driven environment. OR Completed SAICA/SAIPA articles Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills. Outstanding communication and interpersonal abilities. Ability to thrive both independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment. Willingness to continuously learn and advance within the organization. What We Offer: Competitive salary and benefits package. Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement. A supportive and collaborative work environment. The chance to contribute to a dynamic and sustainable farming enterprise.